'Supermodel' alum Ronnie Kroell to film 'Scrooge & Marley' in Chicago

"Make Me a Supermodel" runner-up, Playgirl model and Chicago native Ronnie Kroell is starring in a new movie, "Scrooge & Marley," that will be filmed in Chicago.

"Scrooge & Marley" tweaks Charles Dickens' classic "A Christmas Carol" with a gay sensibility, according to a press release from producers Sam I Am Movies. The indie film will begin shooting here in May and is based on an original script by Ellen Stoneking, Richard Knight, Jr. and the late Tim Imse. It will be directed by Knight and Peter Neville.

Other actors tentatively signed to the project include Megan Cavanagh ("A League of Their Own," "Robin Hood: Men in Tights"), Rusty Schwimmer ("North Country," "Perfect Storm," "Drop Dead Diva") and Chicago vocalist Becca Kaufman. Actor, model and activist Kroell has starred in "Eating Out: Drama Camp" and "Into the Lion's Den."

The production will cast for additional roles, with auditions set for March. For details email casting@scroogeandmarleymovie.com.

Executive producers of the film are Tracy Baim ("Hannah Free") and David Strzepek ("Foodgasm"), who are joined by several co-producers (Knight, Neville, Stoneking, Kroell and Etta Worthington). Those interested in joining the crew should email: editor@windycitymediagroup.com.

According to the release, producers launched an Indie GoGo campaign this week, under the name Scrooge & Marley film, to help finance the movie. They want to raise $15,000 by April 4 to add to the investor funding. Check out the video they created to drum up support below.